Gateron Magnetic Jade vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Outemu Yellow Silver each offer unique attributes tailored to various user preferences. The Gateron Magnetic Jade, a hall effect switch, is celebrated for its bright and clacky sound, making it an excellent choice for those looking to enhance the acoustic experience of their Wooting Hall Effect keyboard. Its design prioritizes a superior typing experience, attracting enthusiasts who appreciate tactile feedback and auditory satisfaction. In contrast, the Outemu Yellow Silver is a linear switch that shines in speed and responsiveness, featuring a lightweight actuation force and a neutral sound profile. This makes it particularly appealing to gamers and typists who prioritize quick keystrokes without the distraction of excessive noise. While both switches cater to different needs—one focusing on a rich auditory experience and the other emphasizing speed and efficiency—there's much more beneath the surface to explore. Let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
30g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Outemu Yellow Silver both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which offers a distinct sonic profile characterized by clarity and sharpness. This common material choice results in a higher-pitched and crisper sound when the switches are actuated, thanks in part to polycarbonate's sturdiness compared to other plastics. The translucency of the polycarbonate also enhances the aesthetic appeal of both switches, making them particularly suitable for setups that incorporate RGB lighting, as the illumination can be effectively diffused through the clear housing. When it comes to achieving similar sound characteristics related to the top housing, users of either switch can expect a resonant experience due to the polycarbonate material's inherent properties.
In contrast, the bottom housing of both the Magnetic Jade and Yellow Silver switches is made from nylon, which imparts a deeper and fuller sound profile to the switches. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than its harder counterparts, creating a dampened, rounded sound when typing. This is especially relevant when considering the overall acoustic experience, as the sound profile produced during bottoming out—largely influenced by the bottom housing—will exhibit this richness and warmth that nylon is known for. Despite the two switches having different branding and perhaps minor design variations, the use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures a similar auditory result when it comes to the feel and sound during key presses.
Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing across both the Magnetic Jade and Yellow Silver switches leads to a unique balance in terms of sound. The polycarbonate top drives the clarity and resonance when keys are released, while the nylon bottom contributes to the fullness and depth of sound when key presses are initiated. As such, whether a user chooses the Magnetic Jade or the Yellow Silver, they can expect a comparable typing experience that harmonizes these distinct characteristics, blending sharpness from the top with richness from the bottom.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The Magnetic Jade has an actuation force of 30 grams, making it lighter and potentially more suitable for users who prefer prolonged typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Yellow Silver requires a stronger actuation force of 45 grams, which may appeal to those who favor a more substantial feel while typing. Both switches share the same bottom out force of 55 grams, indicating that they will provide a similar feedback sensation when pressed down completely. Overall, the Gateron Magnetic Jade is the lighter option, while the Outemu Yellow Silver is the heavier switch, making them suited to different typing preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Magnetic Jade the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times due to its more rapid actuation. In contrast, the Yellow Silver, with its greater travel distance, can provide a more pronounced tactile experience, which some users might find more satisfying and less abrupt. Ultimately, your preference between these switches will depend on whether you favor the responsiveness of a shorter travel distance or the depth and feedback of a longer one.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Magnetic Jade comes in at $8.00, whereas the Outemu Yellow Silver comes in at $3.40.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
The Gateron Magnetic Jade switches are renowned for their bright and clacky sound, making them an exciting choice for users who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. This specific acoustic profile can enhance the overall satisfaction of the typing experience, particularly for those upgrading their Wooting Hall Effect keyboard. In contrast, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch features a neutral sound profile, characterized by a moderate volume level. This makes it a versatile option that caters to both gamers and typists, as it doesn’t distract or overwhelm in quieter environments. While both switches can deliver satisfying auditory experiences, the Magnetic Jade's distinct clackiness sets it apart for users who prioritize sound aesthetics in their setups.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches excel in providing a tactile and responsive experience that caters to users seeking superior performance in their typing endeavors. The signature actuation of the Magnetic Jade enhances both precision and comfort, making it a top choice for dedicated typists. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver is designed for speed with its light actuation force, which facilitates quick and effortless key presses. This feature is particularly beneficial for gamers looking for rapid response times during intense gameplay. While the feel of the Magnetic Jade leans towards a more engaging and tactile experience, the Yellow Silver focuses on ease and swiftness, catering to different user preferences.
In conclusion, the Gateron Magnetic Jade and Outemu Yellow Silver switches both offer unique characteristics that cater to different needs and preferences. The Magnetic Jade provides a bright and engaging sound with a tactile feel, making it ideal for typists who appreciate audio feedback and responsiveness. In contrast, the Yellow Silver offers a neutral sound and a light actuation force, making it a suitable choice for both gamers and typists prioritizing speed and ease of use. Depending on your typing or gaming style, either switch could enhance your overall experience and enjoyment of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall Effect switches and Outemu Yellow Silver linear switches ultimately hinges on your preferences in sound, feel, and intended use. If you lean towards a more dynamic typing experience with a bright, clacky sound that enhances your acoustic enjoyment, the Magnetic Jade switches are the way to go. They are particularly suited for those looking to elevate their typing experience on a Wooting Hall Effect keyboard, making them an excellent choice for enthusiasts who value audibly satisfying feedback. On the other hand, if you’re a gamer or a typist who prioritizes speed and responsiveness, the Yellow Silver switches are ideal. They offer a neutral sound profile, allowing for focused gaming sessions or work without distracting noise. Both switches feature a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, making them comfortable for extended use. In short, choosing the Gateron Magnetic Jade will cater to your desire for an engaging auditory experience, while opting for the Outemu Yellow Silver will support your need for versatility and quick actuation in gaming or productivity environments.
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